U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed South Korean President Lee Jae-myung to the White House on Monday for bilateral discussions, following recent political instability in Seoul.
The meeting comes after Lee's June inauguration, prompted by the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his December declaration of martial law.
Trump expressed openness to revising aspects of the U.S.-South Korean trade agreement, while addressing criticisms of Seoul's handling of related investigations.
During the Oval Office talks, Trump indicated his interest in a future meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
He described their past interactions positively, noting he had "got along great" with Kim and was the first sitting U.S. president to visit North Korea.
Lee praised Trump and voiced hopes for U.S. involvement in promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Trump emphasized the strong mutual reliance between the two nations, highlighting South Korea's dependence on U.S. security support, including troops and nuclear deterrence.
Trump referred to South Korea as a key economic partner, expressing appreciation for its products, ships, and manufacturing capabilities.
He mentioned potential U.S. exports of oil and gas to South Korea, underscoring the interdependent relationship.
The discussions also touched on the U.S. military presence, with over 40,000 American troops stationed there, and the importance of their alliance.
Despite Trump's earlier social media comments questioning South Korea's political stability, the leaders appeared committed to strengthening ties.